October 4, 2010

Weather the Storm! Ruff Wear Unveils New Winter Dog Gear That Stands Up To Harsh Conditions

Bend, OR

In response to our valued customers’ requests and needs, Ruff Wear has developed two products, (one new and one re-designed) that will set a new standard for canine cold weather gear. Ruff Wear, the leading producer of high performance dog gear, unveils the new Polar Trex™ Dog Boots and a re-design of the popular Cloud Chaser™ Soft Shell Dog Jacket. Both products are available now through specialty pet and outdoor retailers as well as through www.ruffwear.com. 


“Over the years, our customers have challenged us to create unique solutions for their four legged friends. We welcome these challenges, as they inspire us to continuously strive to improve our products. Our mission is to build performance products that enhance and inspire outdoor adventures for dogs and their human companions. And this season we’re offering two products to help dogs and humans enjoy cold weather adventures together,” said Patrick Kruse, Ruff Wear's owner and founder. 


Ruff Wear Polar Trex Dog Boots
Ruff Wear’s customers have been asking for a winter-specific dog boot and the Polar Trex is a direct result of this feedback. This cold weather boot incorporates 14+ years of dog boot construction, experience, and exploration by Ruff Wear’s product development team. 

The two main benefits of the Polar Trex Boots are winter traction and insulation. The upper material is a DWR-coated soft shell fabric that is weather-resistant, wind-resistant, and breathable. The boot’s reinforced gaiter extends up the leg of the dog for added protection from snow and ice, as well as sharp ski edges, and withstands deep snow post-holing. For the sole of the boot, Ruff Wear and Vibram® partnered again - this time to create a snow-gripping lug pattern specifically for this dog boot that provides excellent winter traction. Whether skiing, snowshoeing, skijoring, or just playing in cold or inclement weather the Polar Trex dog boots truly raise the bar for winter-specific performance dog boots.
MSRP: $89.95
Sizes: XXS-XL
Color: Red Rock 


Ruff Wear Cloud Chaser Soft Shell Dog Jacket
Designed for ultimate full-coverage weather protection, the soft shell fabric on the Cloud Chaser dog jacket has been updated. Ruff Wear has taken advantage of the latest advancements in windproof, waterproof, and breathable fleece fabric and has incorporated them into this redesigned coat. The new zipper style is easy to zip up over dog’s fur and it stays zipped. Just like its predecessor, the Cloud Chaser protects against rain, snow, wind, and cold so you can prolong any activity in inclement weather. Ruff Wear also kept all the features that customers have come to love about this coat, like reflective trim, an integrated light loop for easy safety beacon attachment, and sizes to fit just about every dog.
MSRP: $74.95
Sizes: XXS-XL
Colors: Granite Gray and Red Rock

Five tips for your next winter adventure with your four-legged friend:

1. The cooler weather provides a great opportunity to get outside with your dog. Some dogs thrive in cool temperatures so take advantage of the seasonal weather! Try a new activity together: trail running/hiking, snow shoeing, or skijoring. Make the adventure comfortable for your dog, put a set of Polar Trex dog boots and/or a Ruff Wear dog coat on and stay out longer!

2. Short-haired dogs often need an additional layer to keep their core temperature in a healthy range. Ruff Wear’s Cloud Chaser keeps dogs’ body heat in while repelling wind and moisture. The flexible material and athletic fit moves with the dog so they can maintain their active pursuits while staying warm and comfortable.

3. When snow storms hit, it’s best to keep your dog on a leash. According to the ASPCA, more dogs are lost during the winter months than during any other season. Dogs can lose their bearings when the weather turns nasty, so keep identification tags on at all times. To make leashed outings easier, use a hands-free, waist-worn leash, like the Ruff Wear Roamer™ Leash.

4. When you’re out on the trail this winter, a little advance planning can keep your dog from having to find his or her own water source. Simply relying on eating snow won't ensure that your dog stays hydrated. An easy solution is to carry a collapsible water bowl in your pack or your dog’s hydration pack. Ruff Wear offers a selection of collapsible bowls and dog-pack-focused hydration solutions that are worth exploring before you head out.

5. During the colder months, outdoor surfaces may contain any number of harsh substances that could irritate dogs’ paws. Ruff Wear’s Polar Trex dog boots not only provide excellent traction on snow and ice, they can protect paws from harmful chemicals like salt and antifreeze. Ruff Wear Polar Trex dog boots are must-have gear when the snow starts to fly.